Why is the water brown in Key West?

HABs can lead to discoloration (red, brown or green tides) of the water as large numbers of algae accumulate. Some HAB-causing algae can release toxins that can lead to fish kills, coral stress and mortality and skin and respiratory problems in humans.



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The water is very clear. There's a long stretch of beaches by the airport. Most of the Key West activity takes place on and around Duval Street, which ends at the ocean. Water varies with time of year and mother nature but clarity of water is best at the Fort Zack state park.

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The seaweed itself is not harmful to humans, but decaying sargassum on beaches releases hydrogen sulfide that can impact people with breathing issues. That said, even decaying sargassum is not considered harmful because the gases disperse quickly on breezy beaches.

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You can also swim and enjoy other water sports like windsurfing and snorkeling as well as kayaking and paddleboarding in the clear, clean water inhabited by tropical fish.

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47th Annual Swim Around Key West on June 3, 2023.

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The Best Beaches In Key West
  • 1) Dry Tortugas & Fort Jefferson. To many, this secluded cluster of islands 70 miles west of Key West is home to the most beautiful beach in the Florida Keys. ...
  • 2) Fort Zachary Taylor. ...
  • 3) Smathers Beach. ...
  • 4) Higgs Beach. ...
  • 5) Bahia Honda State Park.


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Dry Tortugas National Park is a sparkling gem in the Florida Keys. Located about 70 miles west of Key West, and accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is made up of seven small islands and 100 square miles of crystal clear waters, dreamy coral reefs, and lush gardens.

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It's not just any seaweed. It's sargassum – a large brown seaweed that never attaches to the sea floor.

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The 20 best clear-water beaches in Florida are:
  • St. Andrews State Park, Panama City Beach.
  • Bean Point Beach, Anna Maria Island.
  • Inlet Beach, South Walton.
  • Clearwater Beach, Clearwater.
  • Destin Beach, Emerald Coast.
  • Smathers Beach, Key West.
  • Navarre Beach, Florida Gulf Coast.
  • Blue Mountain Beach, Santa Rosa Beach.


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For The Clearest Beaches Visit Fort Zachary Taylor Beach For you beach purists out there, Fort Zachary Taylor Beach is one of the only natural beaches in the Keys.

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The FKAA treated water is pumped 130 miles from Florida City to Key West, supplying water to the entire Florida Keys. The water provided to customers in the Florida Keys is continuously monitored and tested to ensure the water quality is consistent, safe, and meets all federal and state drinking water standards.

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Key West beaches are similar to The Bahamas, with white sand, coral rocks, and shallow turquoise water with tropical fish right off shore.

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It is true that Key West can be an expensive destination, but there are still many ways to enjoy the island on a budget by taking advantage of off-season rates, staying in budget-friendly accommodations, and seeking out free or low-cost activities.

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